Advisory Program

Arts

VISUAL ART
The Middle School art program builds on the artistic foundations established in Lower School. Students encounter a variety of activities to develop skills and appreciation for aesthetics and art history. They are introduced to art criticism. The goal is to provide students with a broad background in the basic art disciplines and to allow maximum time for individual experimentation and creative application of the ideas presented. Students gain a foundation for more advanced study and confidence in meeting the challenges of aesthetic self-expression.

Sixth Grade
This course continues the development of visual communication and technical skills explored during the fifth grade fine arts program. After studying Impressionism through Post-modern art, the curriculum assertively moves towards exploring the meaning of art and the “power” of the artist. Students work towards clearly communicating their meanings to an audience. Focusing on abstraction and symbolism, they investigate ways “non-visual” phenomena become the subject matter of visual expression and are given artistic form. Students respond to their perceptions, observations, emotions, and intuition. Color and composition will be covered. Through class discussions, they evaluate and orally respond to the works of art. Throughout the course, students experiment with various two- and three-dimensional media. They work independently and in collaboration with each other. Students are required to maintain a sketchbook. They take part in an art exhibition.

Seventh/Eighth Grade
The main focus of this course is to examine different ways of seeing and realistically and intuitively representing what is seen. Through various media, students learn to define, recognize, and employ various elements of art and design principles. They study proportions, rules of perspective, and multiple ways to represent space on two-dimensional surfaces. They examine relevant historical artworks, art of the 21st century, and works of contemporary Chicago artists. Students draw connections between art and life and visually express their ideas in a contemporary context. Individual responsibility and personal style are stressed, with opportunities for student decision-making. Students will be exposed to art critique through teacher-led discussions of historical works of art and students’ work. Students show their work in an art exhibition (MPA gallery and virtual).

Sketchbook
In this elective, students will focus on developing ideas and the processes used to transform these ideas and experiences in a particular art piece. Students will use their sketchbooks as the idea repository. They will write down their thoughts and sketch several compositions for each project they will use later to create their final art piece. Students will learn about composition, design, and fine art ingredients (inspiration, content, form). They will experiment with various media (pencils, pastels, watercolor, collages, pen & ink, etc.). Art appreciation will be a part of the course. Students will be exposed to art critique through teacher-led discussions of students’ work. Students show their work in an art exhibition (MPA gallery and virtual).

MUSIC

Sixth Grade
In sixth grade music, students will focus on journaling, song form, song arrangement, rhyme scheme, music theory, and music appreciation. Each student will be able to name and attach definitions to each element of music. Students will also have experience learning music in pentatonic and modal music, and compose their songs with and without utilizing specific music programming software.

Seventh Grade
In 7th grade, general music classes are taught using online platforms such as NoteFlight and SoundTrap, along with games on Kahoot. Process-oriented classes are experiential and require the student to participate on a high level. This is an orientation-level exposure to this material. On NoteFlight, students use the knowledge of classical standard notation they have learned in Orff-based classes. The students use this site to “compose” simple melodies and then more complex two and three-voice pieces. With the ability to hear different instruments play their compositions, students understand the use of timbre in their orchestration. SoundTrap is an online WAV file manipulation site. It allows students to record their voices or instruments or upload sound files. They can then customize the file. Kahoot is used to learn songs and composers, both classical and modern. Throughout the school year, artists and songs are added to continue to build the information learned, rote memorization mixed with game-style applications.

Eighth Grade
In 8th Grade, general music classes are taught using online platforms such as NoteFlight and SoundTrap, along with games on Kahoot. Process-oriented classes are experiential and require the student to participate on a high level. This is an orientation-level exposure to this material. On NoteFlight, students use the knowledge of classical standard notation they have learned in Orff-based classes and technology in 7th grade. The students use this site to “compose” simple melodies and then more complex two and three-voice pieces. With the ability to hear different instruments play their compositions, students understand the use of timbre in their orchestration. An advancement of expectations is set according to the students’ abilities. SoundTrap is an online WAV file manipulation site. It allows students to record their voices or instruments or upload sound files. They can then customize the file. Students can create songs and karaoke. This will enable them to build on the parody section introduced in 5th and 6th grade. Kahoot is used to learn songs and composers, both classical and modern. Throughout the school year, artists and songs are added to continue to build the information learned, rote memorization mixed with game-style applications.

DRAMA

The drama curriculum is both process and performance-oriented. As students are introduced to drama concepts, they learn about movement, voice, and melding their style with a character’s needs. From developing improv techniques and scriptwriting to presenting monologues, Middle School students can discover their voice and create a scene with their fellow actors.

Sixth Grade
In the sixth grade, students are introduced to using the voice as a tool for the actor and the realization of the “self” on stage. Emphasis is placed on building an ensemble, feeling comfortable performing in front of others, and recognizing each student’s vocal patterns. Students develop their ensemble skills, vocal articulation, and confident vocal and physical presentation style. By participating in group exercises, they learn to provide objective responses to classmates’ work and find ways to vocally express their thoughts and feelings clearly, concisely, and creatively.

Seventh/Eighth Grade
In seventh and eighth grade, students continue to build upon their understanding of the tools actors have available. In 7th grade, the emphasis is placed on using the body for communication. Students will understand the importance of non-verbal communication using in-class physical activities and improv exercises. In 8th grade, students explore the art of storytelling, demonstrating their understanding of story structure and what makes a story interesting. Students also engage deeply with the cultural constructs surrounding a story and are challenged to use their voices to tell new stories that benefit a wider cultural audience.

Acting
Middle School Acting is a fine arts elective for 7th and 8th grade students. Building off what we learned in 6th grade drama, we will explore the importance of character study, including intentions, characterization, and personal expression. In Acting + Production, students learn and grow together through structured activities that engage the whole self, body, and mind. We also study the tradition of storytelling and continue to build confidence in vocal and physical presence. Students are graded on class participation, effort, and classroom and at-home work.

Creativity and Mindfulness
In its simplest form, creativity can be defined as “producing something useful and new.” In this class, students will learn how to maximize their creative instincts by learning to master the control parts of the brain as well as the free-wheeling parts. We will explore a self-driven creativity project using mindfulness techniques like journaling, meditation, and stretching. Students will be assessed based on participation in both in-class and at-home assignments.

Create and Produce a Musical
This one-semester course will allow 7th and 8th grade students interested in MPA’s Theatre Department to create their unique musical. Students will gain real-world experience by learning the craft of theatre through on-stage performances, back-stage crew work, scenic, costume, lighting design, advertising, negotiation, directing, composing, choreographing, etc. The course culminates in a final production for classmates, faculty, family, and friends.

Multi-Media Production
In this elective class, students will explore storytelling through the art of the moving picture. Students will learn the basics of screenwriting, storyboarding, pre-production, filming, video editing, sound editing, etc. We will also learn about various moving image genres, including commercials, stop-motion animation, documentary filmmaking, and short fiction films.

Photography
This elective introductory photography class focuses on using a digital point-and-shoot or single-lens reflex camera. Students will begin to explore how cameras work and how to create an interesting image. Students will use their innate creativity to understand the power of a photographic image and communicate their unique perspectives.

Production Tech
Have you ever wanted to sit in the booth of the theatre and control the lights and the sounds? How about working backstage and making sure all productions and assemblies run smoothly? Perhaps you’re interested in learning about the design aspects of the theatre, including set, costume, or lighting design. Then you’re in the right class! Production Tech is a year-long elective open to all students in 6th-8th grade. Students will learn the basics of backstage production for school assemblies and our theatrical productions. Students are assessed based on participation and the effective completion of an assignment (both in-class, homework, and group work).

Improv
This elective delves into the history of Chicago Style Improv, created by Viola Spolin. Viola Spolin developed acting exercises or “games” that unleashed creativity, adapting focused “play” to unlock the individual’s capacity for creative self-expression. Both short and long-form improv will be explored.

Culinary Arts
This course will help students understand the principles of nutrition in relation to food preparation and creation. The concepts of meal planning and management are also addressed. We will regularly plan and prepare meals, and ethnic, regional, and international foods will be studied and prepared. The semester will culminate in a one-night-only pop-up restaurant with food preparation, front-of-house staff, and waiting staff, all comprised of students from the class.

English

Sixth Grade
This course aims to improve students’ reading ability who have already mastered most basic literacy skills. Working with novels as texts, students learn to read for comprehension by interpreting themes and different literary techniques. Classroom approaches and assignments are designed to encourage student ownership and interpretation of materials. Some novels allow students to recognize the links between literary and historical themes; some text settings allow for interpreting primary sources, and others lend themselves to authentic learning experiences. Vocabulary work includes wordplay around meaning, roots and parts, diction, word form, and dictionary skills. The reading program is supplemented with a required summer reading list, which bridges learning from one year to the next. Students study traditional grammar as an editing tool as well as to promote understanding of language structure and use. The focus on grammar includes learning parts of speech and the functions of words, phrases, and clauses within a sentence. Students produce essays responding to novels, emphasizing the process through invention and drafting techniques, and developing a strong thesis statement and supporting paragraphs with examples. Throughout the year, students explore the elements of good writing with lessons on purpose and audience and begin learning the basics of MLA Documentation Style with various research projects. Students will learn to write in various organizational patterns and structures, including biography, vignette, analytical, and research-based essays. Classes are conducted as workshops covering library skills, the use of the Internet, primary and secondary sources, and project organization and presentation. As a way of building active learning, the Middle School English and Social Studies departments have created a curriculum which complements one another. Students in 6th Grade complete Ancient History, while in 6th Grade English, read novels that reflect the historical periods they are learning.

Seventh Grade
Seventh grade English introduces students to various genres and types of literature, more complex grammar and mechanical sentence structures, numerous organizational writing strategies (analytical expository, compare/contrast, cause/effect, and reader response), and more critical thinking activities and projects. The students in 7th grade read with the class at least six novels (including at least one Shakespeare play), short stories, as well as poetry, non-fiction essays, and visual media. For each novel, the class prepares at least one analytical essay, Outside the Novel Project (s), which asks students to think critically about various non-fiction/fiction pieces and their relation to the current novel, along with comprehension quizzes and homework critical thinking discussion questions. The assignments are designed so students read, write, and think critically about a text and make close reading connections beyond the classroom while providing textual evidence to support their analyses. Students will continue their learning of MLA Documentation Style to match the more complex writing and research projects. In addition, students practice grammar and discuss the rules/structures of the grammar module being covered. This addition also includes work learning Greek/Latin root words, prefixes, and suffixes, helping students build more complex vocabulary. The goal of 7th Grade English is to familiarize students with academic analytical writing and to develop their critical thinking and writing skills through literature. To increase active learning in our students, the Middle School English and Social Studies departments have created a curriculum that complements one another. Students in 7th Grade complete World History, while in 7th Grade English, they read novels that reflect the historical periods they are learning.

Eighth Grade
Eighth grade English requires a higher level of critical thinking from its students. Building from the knowledge and skills gained in 7th grade English, students read at least eight novels, various short stories, poetry, non-fiction, and essays and engage with multimedia source materials. Lessons are designed around asking students to read, write, and think critically about the novel by participating in class discussions, providing textual evidence, conducting research, and creating pieces that reflect what they have learned. The essays for the 8th Grade class are more challenging, requiring a 900-word count minimum. They, too, complete at least one analytical essay, a project, and various other homework assignments for each novel/non-fiction writing piece. They also complete grammar module packets, focusing on the skills to write more complex/compound sentences. One key difference between the 7th and 8th grade classes is the increased work with Latin/Greek Root Stems. Students work on learning prefixes, suffixes, and root stems to build skills in breaking down unfamiliar and complex vocabulary. The goal for 8th Grade English is to increase their familiarity with literature, develop their working vocabulary, and teach them to think and write critically about literature–fiction and non-fiction. Just as the 7th Grade curriculum is connected through social studies and English, the 8th Grade curriculum is as well. While 8th Grade students take US History, they will read complementary and historical novels that reflect the time period, events, and historical concepts they are learning in their history courses.

Creative Writing and Journalism
Creative Writing and Journalism is designed to introduce students to writing poetry, memoir/autobiography, biography/ethnography, and introductory journalism. We will investigate these areas, allowing students to learn core principles about these sub-disciplines. Each student will produce portfolios in these areas. These portfolios may include multimedia projects such as podcasts, newscasts, and documentaries. In addition, we will be creating a middle school newspaper for the first time, The MPA Middle Way. Students will be required to participate in not only the writing of articles for publication but also the production of the final copies and distribution of the newspaper to the student body and faculty members of MPA. Students may elect to take the fall semester elective Creative and Journalism I and then continue to the spring semester’s Creative and Journalism II, or students may elect only to take Creative Writing and Journalism I in the fall or only Creative Writing and Journalism II in the spring.

Mathematics

The Mathematics program at Morgan Park Academy stresses the importance of process in understanding math concepts. Students build upon the foundations established in the previous years, and more complex ideas can be mastered. Mathematics standards for each grade include mathematical processes, number operations, geometry, measurement, statistics and probability, and algebra.

Sixth Grade
In this course, students will effectively master arithmetic and geometry skills needed in preparation for Algebra. As such, students will learn not only conceptual material but also practical math study skills, aptness in showing written work, and a general appreciation for the study of math.

Computational skills from previous levels are reviewed and maintained at this time, and new concepts are introduced. Regarding instruction, chapters are broken down into smaller sections to allow a concentration of concepts. Technology is used as a math tool where possible. Students independently complete daily/weekly assignments that are graded based on either accuracy or completion, depending on the assignment.

Concepts covered include All operations with integers, decimals, and fractions; comparing and ordering integers, decimals, and fractions; mathematical properties; inequalities and their graphs; absolute value; writing algebraic expressions; solving one- and two-step equations; order of operations; compass and straightedge constructions; area and perimeter; problem-solving strategies and applications; factors and multiples; divisibility rules; computational shortcuts; mean, median, and mode; prime factorization; exponents; equivalent fractions and simplest terms; ratios, unit rates, and solving proportions; percentages; applications of percent; use of the scientific calculator; similar triangles; maps and scale drawings; using a compass and protractor; angle relationships and logical reasoning; square roots; the Pythagorean Theorem; the Coordinate Plane; linear equations and their graphs; slope and y-intercept form; and nonlinear equations and their graphs.

According to the previous year’s achievement scores, grades, and 5th grade teacher recommendations, sixth-grade students are divided into at-level or accelerated groups.

Seventh Grade Pre-Algebra (At-level and Accelerated)
The pre-algebra curriculum is designed to build student confidence in mathematics through computational experiences involving whole numbers, integers, and rational numbers; non-routine problem-solving employing a variety of techniques, including guessing and testing, making an organized list and writing an equation; probability and statistics; and experiences involving ratios, proportions, and percents. Many topics are introduced and practiced with the use of a variety of manipulatives.

Computational skills from previous levels are continually reviewed and built upon. Technology is used as a math tool where possible, and logic puzzles and problem-solving exercises are used throughout the year. Students complete daily assignments, which are evaluated, and chapters are approached in smaller, thematic sections. Every effort is made to identify and correct common student errors before formal assessment.

Placement in the accelerated section is determined by achievement in the previous course, achievement on standardized tests in problem-solving and procedures, and the recommendation of the 6th grade mathematics teacher with optional inclusion of the results of a placement test given at the end of 6th grade.

Foundations of Algebra (8th Grade)
This foundational algebra course challenges students to develop a better conceptual understanding of the structure of algebra and stronger problem-solving skills. Students learn to make connections among different branches of mathematics and solve real-life problems. By the nature of algebra, mastering many of the techniques in this course is a prerequisite for higher-level math and science courses. Students in this class encounter beginning algebra topics and are expected to take Algebra 1 as high school freshmen. The topics covered in this course include Integers and Rational Numbers, Equations, Inequalities, Functions, Exponents and Polynomials, Polynomials and Factoring.

Computational skills from previous levels are continually reviewed and built upon. Technology is used as a math tool where possible, and logic puzzles and problem-solving exercises are used throughout the year. Students complete daily assignments, which are evaluated, and chapters are approached in smaller, thematic sections. Every effort is made to identify and correct common student errors before formal assessment.

Algebra 1 Honors (8th Grade)
This Algebra 1 course challenges students to develop a better conceptual understanding of the structure of algebra and stronger problem-solving skills. Students learn to make connections among different branches of mathematics and solve real-life problems. By the nature of algebra, mastering many of the techniques in this course is a prerequisite for higher-level math and science courses. Topics include Expressions, Equations, and Functions; Properties of Real Numbers; Solving Linear Equations; Graphing Linear Equations and Functions; Writing Linear Equations; Solving and Graphing Linear Inequalities; Systems of Equations and Inequalities; Exponents and Exponential Functions; Polynomials and Factoring; and Quadratic Functions.

Science

Sixth Grade – Earth and Space
The sixth-grade science course focuses on Earth and space science curriculum. A variety of meaningful laboratory activities occur for each unit, and working in both large and small cooperative groups are incorporated at these times. This course is lab-based, stressing a hands-on approach aimed at nurturing curiosity, developing an understanding of Earth and space science, including the role of human impact, and further developing laboratory skills, scientific processes, and the power of observation. Class and lab work involves hypothesizing, experiment design, measurement, data collection and interpretation, and formulation of conclusions. Technology is integrated into this course. Five central Earth and space science topics are covered: space, the history of Earth, Earth’s systems, weather and climate, and human impact. Students will continue to develop their scientific knowledge and inquiry skills as they learn about the Earth’s biogeochemical cycles, abiotic and biotic characteristics, natural disasters, natural resources, energy supplies, the solar system and galaxies, and the human impact on Earth and space.

Seventh Grade – Physical Science
Seventh grade Physical Science is lab-based, stressing a hands-on approach aimed at developing curiosity, an understanding of the world around and within us, laboratory skills, and keen powers of observation and analysis for later advanced study. Class and lab work involves hypothesizing, experiment design, measurement, data collection and interpretation, and formulation of conclusions. Technology is integrated into this course when appropriate. After completing the course, students will be able to explain and use the methods and tools of scientific inquiry, applying them across scientific disciplines; identify properties of an atom, element, compound, and acids and bases; describe the concepts of motion, force, sound and light, and kinetic and potential energy; apply their knowledge to use of formulas and equations; describe the environmental cycle involving water and discuss the global implications of altering it; identify sources of environmental distress and discuss different measures that humans are taking to improve the health of the planet.

Eighth Grade – Life Science
The Eighth grade Life Science course is designed to offer an organized sequence of experiences that help students develop an understanding and appreciation of the natural world of which they are a part. Using scientific methods, this course introduces students to basic concepts in biology. Technology is integrated within the class when appropriate. The building of prior knowledge is a strength that is apparent as the students complete the program. Topics include the chemical compounds in living things; Mendel’s genetics experiments; the factors that control the inheritance of traits; the principles of probability and how they are related to the theory of inheritance; the role of chromosomes, multiple alleles, and sex-linked traits in inheritance; causes and symptoms of human genetic disorders; Charles Darwin and the theory of evolution; how organisms are classified today; the seven levels of classification; the six kingdoms; bacteria and viruses; protists and fungi; vascular and nonvascular plants; characteristics of animals; fish, amphibians and reptiles; birds; mammals; the chemistry of communication; animal behavior; and adaptations in the living world. Various meaningful laboratory activities are planned for each unit, and working in large and small cooperative groups is incorporated at these times.

Middle School Technology Course
This technology course offers a comprehensive exploration of computer science through hands-on Java programming with code blocks. In addition to coding, students will engage in creative problem-solving using design thinking principles and 3D modeling with Tinkercad. The curriculum covers essential aspects of 3D printing, graphic design using Inkscape, and basic laser cutting techniques. Throughout the course, students will gain a deep understanding of the societal impact of technology, fostering creativity, collaboration, and proficiency in Information Communication and Technology (ICT) skills, all while adhering to ISTE Standards.

Social Studies

Sixth Grade: Ancient History
Sixth grade Ancient History provides the foundation for studying six historical themes: geography, culture, economics, government, belief systems, and science and technology. Using these themes, students explore early man and the effects and influence of discoveries such as fire and agriculture on the development of civilization. Basic elements of civilizations serve as the focal point for the study of several chapters: Egypt, Mesopotamia, early empires, Greece, and Rome. Each chapter unit is supplemented with specific skills such as map and timeline interpretation and the recognition and use of primary and secondary sources. Vocabulary, word study, and note-taking skills are incorporated into each chapter. In addition, each unit includes supplementary activities such as the nature of government, the development of law, and the influence of geography within historical contexts and application to the current world. A foundational understanding of the nature of civilization provides a perspective to explore historical and contemporary events. Students are introduced to research skills throughout the year: note-taking, identifying primary vs. secondary sources, developing thesis statements, and finding appropriate evidence for support. This course will use the online Discovery Techbook. Classes are conducted as workshops covering library skills, using the Internet as a resource, project organization, and presentation.

Seventh Grade: World History
Seventh grade social studies is a survey course on World History that builds upon students’ historical research skills. It focuses on the larger ideas students will become more familiar with as they move into Upper School. This course will use the online Discovery Techbook and offer a collaborative approach to historical study, as it will use project-based learning as a major method of instruction. As students study World History, students will learn the difference between primary and secondary sources of information and have multiple opportunities to utilize primary source documents in their investigation of World History. They will build upon the skills necessary to read and analyze such documents. Additionally, as students prepare for the Chicago History Fair in 8th grade, they will have opportunities to work with using primary sources to support a thesis and the importance of critically investigating the source of information when studying any history. Other historical research skills like understanding cause and effect, how to read maps and timelines, and skills needed for oral and written presentations will be taught and built on in this class as students will have opportunities to use technology as a mode of instruction for research-based projects.

Eighth Grade: U.S. History and Government
The eighth grade social studies curriculum aims to gain an interest in and appreciation of American history. Students study the early inhabitants and exploration of the New World. The study explores the reasons for our nation’s geographical exploration and expansion and examines the problems encountered in the historical development of the U.S. As the year progresses, students explore the importance of past events and make connections to understand how the past relates to the present and themselves. Emphasis is placed on learning and understanding historical facts in various contexts, map skills, graph reading, and skills required for developing both oral and written reports. A major emphasis is placed on identifying and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships.

Furthermore, students evaluate aspects of history to determine the relative importance and influence and discuss their findings with their classmates to determine the most important/influential aspects of U.S. history. Students are given opportunities to use multiple sources of information and express their creativity through various projects. Primary and secondary resources such as art, photos, comics, speeches, and skits will be used to supplement the material in the text. The curriculum spans from European exploration to the modern day. This course will use the online Discovery Techbook. In addition, all eighth graders will participate in the Chicago History Fair as a culminating historical project.

American History Through Film
This elective course for seventh and eighth graders takes an in-depth look at the history of Americans through the lens of modern Hollywood movies. Students will view between five to seven films and analyze the historical accuracy and the representation of the history of Americans in America. Students will be assessed through discussion, research papers, and projects.

World Languages